DEXA
Scan

A DEXA Scan measures bone mineral density
and is used to determine if a person is at increased risk of fracture due to
osteoporosis. This test measures bone mass precisely and safely, using a very
low exposure to radiation. The sensitivity of the DEXA Scan allows for early
detection of diminishing bone mass, which means patients and their physicians
can take measures to effectively stop the process of osteoporosis. DEXA scans
can be used to monitor response to treatment for osteoporosis by measuring the
change in bone mineral density between studies.

How do I prepare?

There is no special preparation needed for
this test. However, patients should not take any calcium supplement the day
before, or the day of, the DEXA scan. The DEXA scan should not be scheduled
within one week following a nuclear medicine study, IVP, or contrast enhanced
CT scan, or for one month following a barium test. If you wear clothing without
metal zippers, there will be no need to change for the test.

What can I expect during the procedure?

During the DEXA scan you will lie on a special table with your legs propped up on a soft
support and your arms over your head or crossed high on your chest. A
mechanical arm moves slowly over the area to be scanned. The lumbar spine, hip,
and/or wrist may be scanned for the test. By measuring more than one area, more
accurate information about your bone density can be determined. The exam is
painless and takes about 15 minutes.

How and when will I get my test results?

Typically, within 48 hours a written report
of your test results will be sent to your referring physician, who will review
them with you. Additional time (3 to 5 days) may be required if we are
comparing these test results to previous findings from another hospital.

Where is the test performed?

We offer DEXA scans at all three of our
Imaging Services centers: Cayuga Medical Center at 101 Dates Drive; the Convenient
Care Center in Ithaca on Warren Road at Arrowwood Drive, and in Cortland at the
Convenient Care and Commons Imaging Center on Route 281 at Commons Avenue.

About our Imaging Services

Cayuga Medical Center has a commitment to
and reputation for staying abreast of changing technology and our imaging
equipment is state-of-the-art. Our range of services is comprehensive and we
offer all imaging modalities found in major medical centers. Radiologists are
on site at all three of our locations, which also distinguishes the level of
service we provide.

Imaging Services is staffed by six-board
certified radiologists, many of whom are subspecialists in areas such as
neuroradiology, abdominal CT, and interventional procedures. Assisting them are
experienced radiologic technologists, many of whom have completed advanced
training and are certified in specialty modalities.